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Make safety a key concern when planning exercise in your workplace.  An accident or injury will not “sell” the wellness program and may end up costing the company. This section will help you take the necessary steps to avoid an accident or injury.

Points to Consider

Using Certified Specialists

Hire professionally certified instructors to lead fitness classes (whether on or offsite) or to run workplace lunch and learn sessions. It is also a good idea to ask the instructor for references.

When you hire instructors, be certain that your insurance protects both the instructor and your company.

Risk Management

Whether we like it or not, liability is an issue these days.

Risk management plans do not have to be complicated or expensive. for  instance, part of the plan might require that personnel complete fitness appraisals and sign statements accepting the possible risks involved in physical activity.

It compensates to be prepared. Safety and emergency policies and procedures reduce the risk of loss both to person and to your company.

Ask staff to sign a waiver when participating in both onsite and offsite activities. for liability reasons, staff must understand the risks involved in participating in the activity and understand that they are waiving their right to sue.

The worker should not be asked to sign the waiver just before the activity.  The waiver could  be invalid if workers claim that they did not fully understand the risks.

Other Safety Tips

Here is a list of some other safety tips to rememberwhen planning exercise.

Look at the environment where personnel are active –

• Sidewalks must be clear of ice and snow, away from falling debris or snow, and have clearly marked curbs and safe crosswalks.

• Stairwells must be well-lit and in good condition and have handrails and safety features, so that employees aren’t locked out of floors.

• Fitness facilities should’ve proper flooring, good ventilation, and access to water and an emergency telephone.

Make available medical screening for employees participating in activities –

• PAR-Q

• PAR-MEDX for Pregnancy

Below are some other important safety factors –

• First-aid kit and automated external defibrillator on site.

• Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place and practised.

• Commercial grade fitness equipment (not donated, “hand me down” equipment).

• Documented equipment inspection and maintenance schedule.

• Orientation of equipment and wellness programs done by licensed expert with a exercise background.